Gene variations of nitric oxide synthase regulate the effects of a saturated fat rich meal on endothelial function.

Background & Aims: Endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) gene variations have been linked to a higher risk for cardiovascular diseases (CVD) by unknown mechanisms. Our aim was to determine if two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) located in NOS3 (E298D and i19342) interfere with microvascular endothelial function (MEF) and/or oxidative stress during the postprandial state.

Methods: MEF was assessed with laser Doppler flowmetry at baseline and 2, 4, 6 and 8 h after ingestion of a single fatty meal (60% fat, 15% proteins and 25% carbohydrates) by 40 healthy young males.